Stop it at the start it’s late for medicine to be prepared when disease has grown strong through long delays. ~ Ovid (Remedia Amoris, line 91)

Diabetes is an epidemic disease, seen on every continent and in every country. It affects nearly 24 million people in the United States, with another 57 million people estimated to have pre-diabetes. Worldwide it is projected that the prevalence of diabetes will reach 333 million people in the year 2025. People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing the long-term complications of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, eye disease and nerve disease. For many people affected by diabetes the two most feared complications are blindness and lower limb amputations. However, these are not inevitable outcomes and can be prevented or delayed with proper education and diabetes care. Diabetes self-management education is the cornerstone of care for people with diabetes. This essential component of care has been proven to improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Two years ago, Dr. Mark Hinkes called me to discuss his concept for a book on preventive foot care for people with diabetes. He was passionate in his conviction that patient education together with comprehensive podiatric care would make a difference in the quality of life for his patients. His objectives were simple, to provide people with diabetes with a better understanding of their disease and its complications as well as the importance of foot health and early recognition of warning signs. When Mark first discussed this project with me, I thought that his goals were ambitious; however I am happy to say that he has far exceeded my expectations and he has hit a home run with this book. His discussion of the subject is comprehensive, practical and entertaining. His case stories are instructive and help to provide the reader with the necessary knowledge to recognize the early warning signs of diabetic foot disease and the importance of early recognition and treatment. Dr. Hinkes provides references for further reading and sources for products. He discusses the role of footwear and orthotics as well as how to determine if you are eligible for therapeutic shoes under Medicare.

Keep The Legs You Stand On is recommended reading for all people with diabetes, their families and caregivers. In addition, I believe that this book provides medical students, interns, residents and nurses with important insight regarding the evaluation, risk assessment and management of the diabetic foot. In the words of my friend and distinguished colleague Dr. Lawrence Harkless, “You see what you look for and recognize what you know.”

I heartily congratulate Dr. Hinkes, on behalf of the many people with diabetes and their caregivers who will be helped by this splendid book.

Lee J. Sanders, DPM
Past President, Health Care and Education for the American Diabetes Association

-drhinkes